tacky

Tacky is an adjective with two primary senses. First, it describes something physically sticky to the touch. More commonly, the term is used figuratively to mean lacking in good taste or quality—gaudy, garish, or in poor taste. In everyday use, calling something tacky implies that its styling, materials, or presentation feel cheap or overly showy rather than elegant or refined.

Etymology: The sense meaning sticky derives from tack, a sticky or adhesive substance. The figurative sense of tastelessness emerged in American English in the mid-20th century and has since become common in many varieties of English. The word is typically informal and somewhat pejorative; speakers often pair it with stronger insults or with phrases like “very tacky” or “tacky looking” rather than using a neutral term.

Usage and examples: Tacky is frequently used to describe fashion, décor, advertising, or behavior that aims to impress but misses subtlety. Examples include a tacky souvenir shop packed with neon signs, a party with loud, flashing decorations, or humor that relies on cheap jokes. Because taste is subjective, what counts as tacky can vary by culture and context.

Synonyms and related terms: Common synonyms include gaudy, garish, kitschy, and cheesy; antonyms include tasteful, elegant, understated, and refined. In some contexts, speakers may use ironic or playful senses of tacky to describe intentionally camp or retro styles.